Sophie Cunningham praised for national anthem gesture during WNBA game
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 2:15 PM
Last updated Aug 18, 2026

Sophie Cunningham, of the Indiana Fever, received commendation for her patriotic display during the national anthem before the game against the Atlanta Dream. Despite the Fever's 95-91 overtime victory, Cunningham stood alone with her hand over her heart, prompting positive reactions on social media. The atmosphere was heightened by the absence of the Dream players during the anthem and a controversy involving fans being asked to cover shirts considered against transgender athletes. The WNBA acknowledged the incident, clarifying that league security's actions did not align with their inclusivity standards.
- •Cunningham was the only Fever player to stand for the anthem.
- •Indiana Fever won against Atlanta Dream in overtime, 95-91.
- •Angel Reese contributed significantly with 15 points and 14 rebounds.
- •Controversial incident involved fans covering shirts at the game.
- •WNBA security actions were criticized by the Atlanta Dream.
- 2:15 PMYahoo Sports — ‘She went above and beyond’: Sophie Cunningham receiving praise for national anthem move
"Sunday’s game between the Indiana Fever and Atlanta Dream was one of the most exciting of the entire season. Fever superstar Caitlin Clark scored 26 points and tallied nine assists in the 95-91 overtime win for Indiana. Clark’s biggest rival, Dream star Angel Reese, had a whale of a game as well, scoring 15 points…
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